VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Virginia Beach has a new top firefighter -- but he's a familiar face around the department.
The city swore Kenneth Pravetz in as Fire Chief on January 3 in a ceremony with the mayor and city manager.
Pravetz has worked with the Virginia Beach Fire Department (VBFD) since 1999 and he worked for the Air Force before that.
He also has degrees in fire science, health and safety and security studies, and has been part of a swath of other safety education programs.
The city said he's bringing 35 years of experience with him to the role of chief. He's also deployed to help national disaster recovery with Virginia Task Force 2.
"As he progressed through the ranks, Chief Pravetz held many challenging assignments," a city spokesperson wrote. "His current assignment is the Deputy Chief of Services responsible for personnel, finance, training, logistics, planning, and community risk reduction."
City Manager Patrick Duhaney praised Pravetz's communication and leadership skills, and said he would be a national leader in public safety for many more years.
Chief Pravetz also spoke at his swearing ceremony.
"The VBFD exists to protect the citizens and guests of our great city. As we begin to celebrate the 60th anniversary of this community, I reflect on the firefighters and officers that have established the fire department as an international leader in emergency services. Because of this foundation, we strive for excellence every day," he said. "I am excited about the future and truly humbled to be selected as the next fire chief.”